Summer High School Research Program
Spend your summer doing research at LLE!
Are you a Rochester, New York-area high school junior with a passion for science and a desire to explore the frontiers of research? Join us at LLE this summer!
About the Program
The eight-week program provides an exceptional opportunity for highly motivated students to experience scientific research in a realistic environment. Students will receive a monetary stipend for their participation.
Students who are accepted into the program are assigned to a research project and supervised by a staff scientist or engineer at LLE. These projects form an integral part of the research program of the Laboratory and are related to the Laboratory’s 60-beam OMEGA laser, one of the world’s most powerful fusion lasers, and the OMEGA EP laser. At the end of the program, the students present the results of their projects at a symposium in the Laboratory.
What to Expect
- Hands-On Research: Work alongside world-class scientists and engineers on exciting projects in fields like laser physics, plasma physics, and materials science.
- Mentorship: Benefit from personalized guidance and support from experienced researchers.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Explore our world-class laser systems, laboratories, computer systems, and equipment.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with talented undergraduate and graduate students.
- Another Way to Differentiate Yourself: Stand out among your peers for college admissions, scholarships, and internships.
Applications for Summer 2026 Have Closed
If you have submitted an application and have questions, please contact Liz Conrow at hsprogram@lle.rochester.edu
Next Steps for Current Applicants: Application Review and Interview Process
Following an initial review of applications by the selection committee, a subset of applicants will be invited to participate in one of two Zoom-based program overviews led by the Program Director, Dr. Stephen Craxton. Selected applicants will also be invited to a 30-minute individual Zoom interview, which will be scheduled during the month of March.
All interviews will be conducted via Zoom to facilitate easy scheduling and to be respectful of students’ and families’ time.
An in-person parent meeting for selected students will be scheduled in May.
Questions?
Contact Liz Conrow at hsprogram@lle.rochester.edu
I was looking at summer research opportunities and this one checked all the boxes. It was a paid internship with a chance to do research with distinguished scientists. It was perfect. And the building is massive and super cool.
Program Highlights
- Immersive Research Experience: Spend two months immersed in a dynamic research environment.
- Specialized Seminars: Attend weekly seminars on topics such as laser physics, optics, materials science, and scientific communication.
- Career Exploration: Gain insights into potential career paths in science and technology.
- Project Report: You’ll write a report summarizing your research, which you can use to leverage college admissions, scholarships, and future internship opportunities.
Eligibility
To be considered for the LLE Summer High School Research Program, you must:
- Be a Rochester-area high school student entering 12th grade in the upcoming academic year.
- Have a strong interest in science and a demonstrated academic aptitude.
- Be able to commit to the full eight-week program duration.
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